The Blue Jackets had to be encouraged by Brandon Dubinsky's showing in the first two games of the regular season. He was quicker, sharper, and looked at times like the version of himself we've seen in previous years; but now, they will be without him for up to six weeks.

Dubinsky suffered a strained oblique muscle in Sunday's practice at Nationwide Arena, the team announced Monday morning. Dubinsky was seen leaving the ice in pain during the skate and didn't return.

The team has placed Dubinsky on injured reserve, opening a roster spot to recall a forward from Cleveland. At the ready, the Blue Jackets have Lukas Sedlak as an extra forward and he figures to have a good chance at playing in Tuesday's game against Colorado.